In this episode, we look at a recent lawsuit filed by the notorious Satanic Temple challenging abortion restrictions in the state of Missouri. In the main segment, Andrew tells you how to read a Complaint, and Thomas offers advice to the Satanic Temple’s lawyers about which arguments are more persuasive to him.
Our opening segment begins with “Breakin’ (Down) the Law,” where we discuss a catchy legal phrase, “in perpetuity throughout the universe.” Why would anyone say that?? Andrew explains why. In our closing segment, we look at a Tennessee state representative, who tells us that everyone knows you should burn those red light camera tickets! (No. No, you should not.)
H/T for both the episode content and the “Closed Arguments” segment goes to the newly-married Eli Bosnick! Congratulations and thanks.
Show Notes & Links
- The Complaint filed by the Satanic Temple in federal court.
- The decision by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri dismissing the Satanic Temple’s lawsuit.
- Hemant Mehta’s discussion of the case on the Friendly Atheist blog.
- Attorney Marci Hamilton’s opinion that the case will be overturned on appeal.
- The Knoxville News-Sentinel article about state Rep. Andy Holt, who is encouraging citizens to burn their red light camera tickets.
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A correction: Pastafarianism is a parody religion.
Satanism is a real religion, with sincerely held beliefs. The belief is based on Satan as a protester against authority, a challenger, a questioner. It is a stance of heresy, doubt and skepticism. The etymology of “Satan” was not originally a name, it was a term meaning “The Adversary”. The tenets of the Satanic Temple are very serious. https://thesatanictemple.com/about-us/tenets/
These tenets are much more supportive of separation of church and state than the tenets of other religions.
Thanks!